How to Stay Safe From Fireworks on the Fourth of July

While nearly 10,000 people are treated annually for fireworks-related injuries, thousands of Americans prove that one can fire a Roman candle without causing self-immolation. Here are six ways to keep from getting burned this Fourth of July.

"The instant that bottle rocket exploded in my face, my life changed forever." That was U.S. Olympic hopeful Jonathan Jackson, victim of a childhood fireworks accident, speaking at a press conference held yesterday by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), which has co-founded an Alliance to Stop Consumer Fireworks. Jackson was left blind in one eye by the incident.

NFPA president Jim Shannon says, "Each year, nearly 10,000 people are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries, and many of these injuries go hand-in-hand with Fourth of July celebrations. A visit to the emergency room is no way to celebrate the birth of our country." Johnson suggested, instead, "attending public fireworks displays put on by trained professionals."

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Thousands of Americans prove each Fourth that one can fire a Roman candle without causing self-immolation, but Johnson does have a point. Yesterday's press conference used mannequins clad as beach-going children to demonstrate potential third-degree tragedies caused by the deadly sparkler, the ignition behind 22 percent of the estimated 9800 visits to American emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries in 2007. The sobering statistics, paired with the blistered, blackened lumps where the manneuquins' hands used to be, could lead a concerned parent to decide this year's shows should be viewed from a safe distance. Perhaps even venturing outdoors on Saturday is too much a gamble, and time would best be spent with a harmless, patriotic screening of the top 10 movie explosions of all time before calling it a night.

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We suspect, though, that fireworks are among the risky diversions that can be enjoyed responsibly by our readers. Bill Gurstelle wrote in Absinthe and Flamethrowers that the key is to "understand the dangers and rewards of sensible risk-taking"—this from a book that includes instructions for building fireworks with homemade gunpowder. Precaution and preparation are the key lessons in the book's safety-filled introductory section, titled "The Most Important Chapter in the Book." In keeping with Gurstelle's education-as-prevention theme—and, since fireworks aren't completely outlawed, yet—here are six ways to keep from getting burned this Fourth of July.

1. It may seem like a no-brainer, but make sure that your home's smoke detector is working. These seven steps to fire safety include more advice on smoke detectors, extension cords and the combustion hazards of oily shop rags.

2. This comprehensive guide to fire-extinguisher use explains when to use this tool—and when not to. Here's how to fight a fire, with tips on keeping the extinguisher ready in case you need it.

3. We look ahead at the future of firefighting with retrofitted attack helicopters, fire-forecasting software and other high-tech tools headed for the front lines.

4. Re-engineered to be easier to use (and to keep prominently displayed), the Home Hero fire extinguisher offers an updated alternative to the classic ABC extinguisher.

6. A separate set of tools and skills helps wildfire paramedic Michael Casey treat victims caught in backcountry California blazes. Speaking of what it takes to rescue people stranded in the searing Sierra Nevada mountains, he says, "you've got to love serving people."